NRLW history was made on Thursday night as Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato and Broncos front-rower Millie Boyle were named joint winners of the Dally M Medal for female player of the season.
Never before had the medal been awarded to two players in one season in the women’s game, but Tonegato and Boyle couldn’t be split in this year’s voting at the NRLW awards night in Brisbane.
Tonegato also clinched the tackle of the year award for an extraordinary effort on Roosters centre Jessica Sergis in round five.
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NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo hailed the exceptional seasons of Tonegato and Boyle.
“Both Emma and Millie have been standouts this season and should be congratulated on this honour, becoming the first-ever dual winners of the Dally M female player of the year award – in a season of firsts,” Abdo said.
“To be able to celebrate our best female players’ achievements at such a special night, capped by the historic presentation to dual Dally M female player of the year winners, is a fantastic way to build towards not only Sunday’s grand final, but an exciting future.”
The Dally M Medal is awarded through a 3-2-1 voting system.
Tonegato will take to the field for Sunday’s NRLW grand final in Brisbane as her Dragons side clashes with the Roosters.
Dally M female player of the year
Emma Tonegato (Dragons) and Millie Boyle (Broncos)
Captain of the year
Brittany Breayley-Nati (Titans)
Coach of the year
Jamie Soward (Dragons)
Try of the year
Shaniah Power (Titans)
Tackle of the year
Emma Tonegato (Dragons)
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